The "South Carolina Computer Science Education Initiative Act" aims to enhance computer science education in public high schools across the state. The bill mandates the State Board of Education to adopt a comprehensive statewide computer science plan by December 31, 2026, which will include goals for improving K-12 computer science education, particularly in rural areas, and strategies for increasing the number of computer science educators. By the 2026-2027 school year, all public high schools must offer at least one rigorous computer science course that meets specific criteria, including diverse learning formats and alignment with state standards.

Additionally, the bill outlines various responsibilities for the Department of Education, including the employment of a full-time coordinator for the initiative, the development of career pathways in high-demand fields, and the provision of professional development for teachers. It also requires the creation of certification pathways for computer science teachers and the establishment of guidelines for educational requirements. The Department of Education is tasked with reporting annually to the General Assembly on student participation in computer science education, ensuring that the initiative aligns with workforce needs and promotes equitable access to computer science learning opportunities.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 59-29-250
04/02/2025: 59-29-250
04/04/2025: 59-29-250
04/09/2025: 59-29-250
Latest Version: 59-29-250
12/06/2024: 59-29-250